Charlton’s performance against Brentford was exhilarating and was so unexpected, that it had a profound effect on the crowd.

Johnnie Jackson had clearly spoken to the players and Guy Luzon seems more receptive to suggestions than Bob Peeters ever was.

Damien Matthew was in Luzon’s ear all afternoon, so it must be assumed that he had an influence on proceedings.

Stephen Henderson’s calmness gives his defence confidence. The stopper returned for his first appearance since the team’s last win at Reading in early November.

Roger Johnson is very vocal on the pitch, talking, cajoling and encouraging his colleagues. Tal Ben Haim had his best game for some while alongside the Surrey born 31-year-old.

The clash with Andre Gray late in the first half left Johnson with a cracked rib, which needed a jab at the break to get through the second period.

Stretching a point with Henderson, Luzon side’s had seven British born players in the starting line-up, a steely backbone embellished with a sprinkling of Continental flair, a heady combination.

The high tempo game plan pushed Brentford back, handing the initiative to Charlton. The players confidence and determination ensured that they turned their advantage into a long overdue win.

The victory came at a cost though. As well as Johnson’s cracked rib, Luzon had to make first half substitutions to replace injury victims, Rhoys Wiggins and Johnnie Jackson.

Wiggins appeared to have picked up a leg injury and Jackson hurt his calf.

The skipper will require a scan and is likely to be out for a number of weeks.

The club’s medical team will be working overtime before they leave for Friday’s game at Wigan.